THE LATEST ADVANCES IN LIFTING EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY
13 March 2023
Lifting equipment is an essential component of many construction and industrial operations. In recent years, advancements in technology have made the use of lifting equipment safer, more efficient, and more reliable. In this blog, we will examine some of the latest advances in lifting equipment technology and what they mean for businesses in need of reliable lifting equipment suppliers.
ELECTRIC WINCHES: THE FUTURE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT
Electric winches are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for lifting equipment, replacing traditional hydraulic and pneumatic winches. Electric winches are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, with lower emissions and less noise pollution. They are also easier to use and maintain, making them a popular choice among lifting equipment suppliers.
One of the latest advancements in electric winch technology is the introduction of smart winches. Smart winches are equipped with sensors that can monitor load, speed, and temperature, allowing for real-time control of the lifting operation. This technology not only increases safety but also improves efficiency by reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
MONITORING CAPABILITIES
As mentioned above, sensors enable winches and other lifting equipment to measure and display vital metrics to equipment operators. Load sensors are an essential safety feature in lifting equipment, allowing operators to monitor the weight of the load being lifted. In the past, load sensors were mechanical and prone to failure, but with advancements in technology, they are now highly reliable and accurate.
New load monitoring systems are now equipped with wireless connectivity, making it possible to monitor the load from a remote location. This technology allows for real-time monitoring of the lifting operation, ensuring that the load is always within safe limits.
5G REMOTE CONTROL TECHNOLOGY
A 5G remote-control system for tower cranes aimed at improving operator safety and the working environment has been developed in recent years. The system features multi-angle video surveillance, intelligent hook tracking, monitoring of crane parameters such as wind speed, and an anti-collision system that uses AI and computer vision technologies.
Having already applied 5G technology to its tower cranes, mobile cranes, concrete pump trucks and excavators, the system’s creator intends to use 5G technology across all its products in the near future.
ANTI-COLLISION SYSTEMS
Anti-collision technology remains popular on worksites, as safety is always – and should always be – a priority for those working in potentially dangerous environments. A recent project in Norway has successfully utilised AMCS Technology’s anti-collision system across a range of tower cranes from different brands.
Anti-collision technology is most beneficial on complex and/or diverse sites, where the risk is deemed relatively high. A sensor manufacturer has developed a radar sensor for collision avoidance in cranes operating in harsh environments and challenging conditions, including transport hubs and container terminals. It is able to achieve long-range resolution and make accurate distance estimates even in heavy rain, thick fog, snow, or dusty environments.
Advancements in lifting equipment technology have made lifting operations safer, more efficient, and more reliable. At Atlas Winch Hire & Hoist Services, we are committed to providing our clients with the latest and most advanced lifting equipment available. If you are in need of reliable lifting equipment, contact us today at 01899 221 577 (Scotland) or 01371 859 555 (Essex) to learn more about our range of quality hoist and winch products.